Which is an appropriate preoperative teaching plan for a school-age child?

Which is an appropriate preoperative teaching plan for a school-age child?

a.
Begin preoperative teaching the morning of surgery.
b.
Schedule a tour of the hospital a few weeks before surgery.
c.
Show the child books and pictures 4 days before surgery.
d.
Limit teaching to 5 minutes and use simple terminology.

ANS: C

Preparatory material can be introduced to the school-age child several days (1 to 5) in advance of the event. Books, pictures, charts, and videos are appropriate. Preoperative teaching a few hours before surgery is more appropriate for the preschool child. Preparation too far in advance of the procedure can be forgotten or cause undue anxiety for an extended period of time. A very short, simple explanation of the surgery is appropriate for a younger child such as a toddler.